From Toronto to Damascus: Syrians return home aiming to rebuild country

The collapse of Syria's al-Assad government in late 2024 prompted a significant shift in perspective for many expatriate Syrians. Yasseen Tasabehji, who had built a stable life in Mississauga, Canada, alongside his four siblings and parents since 2010, found himself reconsidering his family's permanent departure from their homeland. The rapid succession of events—rebel forces capturing major cities and the regime's flight to Moscow—created what Tasabehji described as an unexpected opening of possibilities.

After visiting Damascus in April 2025 to reconnect with extended family, Tasabehji and his siblings made the decision to relocate permanently. Several of the siblings, who are experienced climbers, identified an opportunity to establish a climbing gym in the Mezzeh neighbourhood. The facility opened with a broader mission beyond recreation: to provide young Syrians with community spaces, healthy activities, and opportunities for personal development during a period of national reconstruction.

The gym now operates programmes designed to build self-esteem and foster community among local youth. Tasabehji emphasized the absence of such gathering spaces and healthy activities for young people, noting that many felt compelled to leave Syria. By creating an attractive environment within the country, the family aims to offer young Syrians a reason to remain and invest in their nation's future.

The Tasabehji family represents part of a broader wave of return migration. Since the al-Assad regime's collapse, approximately 1.5 million Syrians have come back to the country. These returnees include refugees from neighbouring nations such as Turkey and Lebanon, as well as professionals who had relocated to Europe and the Gulf region. While economic and social challenges persist, many returnees share a sense of optimism about contributing to Syria's rebuilding efforts.